WHEAT DISEASE pressure is growing as many forward crops approach the T1 spray timing, according to latest reports.

The first live winter wheat monitoring report  from Crop Monitor shows that Septoria tritici and mildew are obvious in the majority of crops and across a range of varieties.

“Crops will be approaching Growth Stage 32 in the next week or two and T1 sprays should be planned now,” said ADAS‘s Bill Clark who prepared the report.

Only late October/November sown wheat crops are free from septoria symptoms, while mildew is reported on a range of varieties including Claire, Option, Solstice and less susceptible varieties such as Consort, he said.

While yellow rust has been reported in parts of East Anglia, Yorkshire and the Borders, as yet there have been no confirmed outbreaks on Crop Monitor sites.

“Even though yellow rust can be found in Robigus, the disease normally develops slowly at this time of year, so for the majority of crops no specific action prior to the normal T1 treatment will be needed.”

The report also highlights varying eyespot incidence and crops in milder, wetter areas are likely to require treatment.

Crops should be monitored closely before deciding on T1 treatments, he added.